Patents by Inventor Michael F. Carroll

Michael F. Carroll has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Publication number: 20110282256
    Abstract: A system comprising a combination of orthopedic traction devices for limiting abduction of the arm and preventing impingement of the user's shoulder. The devices include a nighttime ipsilateral shoulder traction device with removable leg and wrist cuffs, an elastic connecting strap connecting the cuffs to apply impingement-reducing traction to the shoulder joint; and a daytime centrifugal exercise device with a weighted member rotated by a handle using the ipsilateral arm. The invention also includes a method for using the two devices in combination, and a series of exercises for the centrifugal exercise device that specifically complement the nighttime impingement reduction of the traction device. In the preferred form, the traction device includes removable leg and wrist cuffs secured to the lower leg and wrist, respectively, and a one-handed quick release mechanism that allows the user to release the cuffed arm with the cuffed hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: JOINT SMART LLC
    Inventor: Michael F. Carroll
  • Patent number: 5921398
    Abstract: A shipping and display container has two opposing end panels in a spaced parallel relationship and front and rear panels in a spaced parallel relationship defining opposing front and rear container surfaces. The front and rear panels are connected to the two opposing end panels to form a container periphery. A bottom panel extends within the container periphery to define a bottom surface of the container. A top panel also extends within the container periphery to define a top surface of the container. The top surface includes an opening for viewing the contents of the container. The container is also convertible from a storage configuration to a display configuration. The conversion mechanism includes the top surface and the front surface having a removable portion defined by a pattern of lines of weakening, at least the top surface and the rear surface including a further line of weakening, and the bottom surface defining a fold line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Star-Kist Foods, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael F. Carroll